Derasat's “Think Talks” Series: Promoting Intellectual Dialogue in 2023
Date: December 4, 2023
The Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat), successfully continued to organize its lecture series titled, “Think Talks” throughout the year in 2023, leaving a significant impact on the intellectual landscape. The series served as a platform for local, regional, and global intellectuals to present and discuss a wide range of important topics, including international relations, military technology, digital transformation, trade dispute resolution, mental health, history, and strategic planning; fostering valuable discussions and promoting knowledge exchange.
Shaikha Nayla Ali Al Khalifa, the Director of Communication and Knowledge Management Directorate at Derasat, stated that “The ‘Think Talks’ lecture series has been instrumental in facilitating intellectual dialogue and fostering a culture of knowledge sharing. It has provided a unique platform for experts and enthusiasts alike to investigate pressing issues and explore innovative ideas”.
Furthermore, she emphasized that “the lecture series has truly become a catalyst for intellectual exploration and cross-cultural understanding. By bringing together experts and thought leaders from diverse fields, we aim to foster an inclusive platform where ideas can flourish and innovative solutions can be forged”. She added, “We are proud of the impact that this series has made in promoting dialogue and knowledge exchange, and we look forward to continuing to inspire and engage our audience in 2024 and beyond”.
One of the notable events in the series focused on the effective utilization of the dispute settlement system of the World Trade Organization. Another lecture delved into the factors that shape French foreign policy in the Middle East, providing insights into the French approach toward the region. Additionally, a lecture at the center explored the dynamics of German-French relations in the aftermath of the First and Second World Wars.
In addition to individual lectures, Derasat organized a symposium titled “The Role of Strategic Planning in the Work of Institutions”. The symposium aimed to explore the significance of strategic planning in various organizational contexts.
Distinguished organizations such as the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), and the Bahrain Airport Company, and the Bahraini Strategic Planning Society shared their perspectives during the event, enriching the discussions on strategic planning.
Likewise, the “Think Talks” series also delved into military technology, addressing its challenges, prospects, and the impact of artificial intelligence developments on the military sector. The lectures highlighted the Arabian Gulf countries’ aspirations to leverage military technology while ensuring optimal utilization and localization of military manufacturing.
Recognizing the importance of mental health, Derasat organized an intellectual discussion titled “Community Culture and the Importance of Psychological Care”. The discussion shed light on borderline personality disorder and its prominent features. Experts emphasized the significance of mental health awareness, the consequences of neglecting it, and the need for psychological support and appropriate treatment.
The diverse range of topics covered in the “Think Talks” series exemplifies Derasat’s commitment to promoting research and facilitating knowledge exchange among specialists and individuals interested in various scientific fields. These lectures served as a platform for intellectual dialogue, aligning with Derasat’s mission of promoting scientific research, facilitating dialogue, and exchanging experiences.
Throughout the year, the lectures attracted a wide range of participants, including officials, researchers, Derasat Center partners, and members of the general public with a keen interest in the discussed topics. By organizing this impactful series of lectures, Derasat demonstrated its dedication to fostering dialogue, disseminating knowledge, and addressing pressing societal issues. The Center’s mission extends beyond the local community, making a global impact.